Cover Letter Samples

Different cover letters serve different purposes. Are you are applying for a specific opening? Has someone you know referred you to a job or an employer?

Choose the cover letter type that matches your situation.

Invited cover letter

Use this format when responding to an ad or other listing. This style focuses on matching your qualifications to the position requirements, but also aims to give the reader a general good impression of you.

Invited Cover Letter Sample (353KB, .pdf)
Invited Cover Letter Sample – No Paid Work Experience (372KB, .pdf)

The cold–contact cover letter

Use this format to contact employers who have not advertised or published job openings. Research careers to find the requirements for the job you're applying for. Research the employer to find out specifics about the company. Then focus the cover letter on matching your qualifications with that research.

Cold-Contact Cover Letter Sample (344KB, .pdf)

The referral cover letter

You may be referred to job openings or possibilities through networking, informational interviews, or contact with employers. A referral may be to a specific job opening (advertised or unadvertised), or to an employer who may or may not be hiring now. In a referral letter, always mention the individual who provided the information about the company or job.

Referral Cover Letter Sample (354KB, .pdf)

The job match or "T" cover letter

A Job Match cover letter focuses on matching the specific requirements of the job and/or employer with your qualifications. Learn what you can about the requirements from employment advertisements, position descriptions, phone conversations, career research, and informational interviews. Include these details in the letter.

Job match or "T" letter sample (349KB, .pdf)

Source: Creative Job Search , Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.